This survey, commissioned by A Place For Mom, Inc. (the nation's largest senior living referral service), revealed that 28% of Americans don't feel they know, or knew, their mothers as well as they would like.

Perhaps even more surprising: out of all the topics those surveyed wish they knew more about (family history, personal history, medical history, life advice, and career highlights), the top three topics were family history (64%), personal history (59%) and life advice (45%).

The article also suggested some great questions to ask your mom, if she's still around:

What have you enjoyed the most about your life?What would you like to do or accomplish in the next five years?

What financial and legal documents should I know about?

Does our family have a history of illnesses?

How can I help you continue to maintain the best quality of life?

The takeaways from this survey?

If any of you moms out there are wondering if anyone is interested in your story -- they are.

If your mom is still living, ask questions now while you still can! Better yet, help her to preserve her stories so that your children and grandchildren will be able to know her too.

Writing a memoir or autobiography is a daunting, overwhelming task, one that requires hours/days/years of uninterrupted time. Not to mention a degree in English. And a trust fund so you can quit your day job.

Wait, but...NO!.

It doesn't have to be that way. Writing a story can be really quite simple, like washing your hair. Three simple steps: Lather, rinse, repeat.